Calls for new medical centre premises after shock decision to close Storrington practice

New premises for a Storrington practice could be sought in a bid to combat an anticipated rise in patient numbers.

Nick Herbert, MP for Arundel and South Downs, said he would look at the option for Glebe Surgery as a long-term response to the shock decision to close Mill Stream Medical Centre, as exclusively revealed in the County Times.

It currently serves more than 4,000 people in the area.

The NHS is writing to current patients to inform them how to register with neighbouring Glebe Surgery as well as practices in Pulborough, Steyning and Billingshurst.

But he acknowledged a large number of people may wish to register with Glebe Surgery.

In light of this an option for a new premises could be pursued.

The MP said: “I have spoken to GPs, including Dr Bailey, and to the Area Team at NHS England about this closure, and am sorry about the circumstances that have led to this decision.

“Fortunately there are very good alternative GP practices available, including in Storrington, and patients will have the choice of where to register.”

He continued: “Obviously if a large number of patients elect to go to the Glebe Surgery there will have to be short term arrangements for additional capacity and in the long term, as I discussed with the GPs when I visited the Glebe recently, new premises.

“Steyning and Pulborough surgeries have both had excellent new buildings in recent years, so perhaps the time has come to consider the same for Storrington.”